7 Kid Friendly Memorial Day Activities

Memorial Day is a federal holiday for remembering those who died while serving in the United States’ armed forces. While your children may not understand the reasons behind why we celebrate, you can still teach them that our military heroes deserve respect on this special day and always.

Below are 7 patriotic activities you and your kids can do together this Memorial Day!

Fly a United States flag. The flag should fly at the half-mast position until noon then full-mast for the remainder of the day.

Watch the National Memorial Day Concert. This multi-award-winning television event, which takes place on the West lawn of the United States Capitol on Sunday, May 29, 2016 from 8:00-9:30 pm, is broadcast on PBS and NPR.

If watching a concert is not your speed, check out the Indianapolis 500. This auto race has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911 on the Sunday before the holiday at the Indianapolis Speedway. Watch the race and related events on ABC throughout the day.

Make a list of family members who died while serving their country. Tell your kids stories about these heroes to make them seem more “real” to them. Stop to remember them at 3:00 PM on Memorial Day in observance of the National Moment of Remembrance Act, passed by Congress in 2000.

Make an “American Themed” dessert. A fruit and yogurt parfait using strawberries and blueberries is an easy and beautiful dessert to make to help celebrate Memorial Day. (see recipe)

Sing a patriotic song. Teach your children the words and tunes to some of the nation’s favorites. Feeling creative? Then have your children help write patriotic lyrics to the tune of one of their favorite songs and sing it together!

Create a plan for the summer months! Memorial Day also marks the start of the summer vacation season. Make the most of the summer, and create lasting memories for the future.

How will you be spending Memorial Day? Do you have any kid-friendly family traditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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